The Netherlands and Greece set solar energy records, contributing to a significant reduction in the EU's reliance on coal, which has reached historic lows.

The Netherlands and Greece set records in solar energy production, with 40.5% and 35.1% of the energy mix respectively. By June 2025, solar energy accounted for 22.1% of total energy consumed in the EU, overtaking fossil fuels and nuclear power. This growth was supported by sunny weather and increased capacities. Coal dependence also fell to a historic low of 6.1%, with ten Member States using no coal at all. Public support for renewable energy remains strong and the future of solar energy in Europe looks promising, with the potential to turn former coal mines into solar farms.